Support Groups in Richmond, VA

We are proud to introduce H4TG Counseling. This program is designed to provide compassionate and accessible mental health support to individuals diagnosed with cancer and their support system. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. Through this initiative, we strive to empower each person we serve by offering: Hope, Engagement, Resources and, Empowerment using trauma informed practices. Together, we are HERE—with you and for you—every step of the way. We offer two locations in both Richmond and Williamsburg Virginia.
Photo of Melissa Weaver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Melissa Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23221
We are proud to introduce H4TG Counseling. This program is designed to provide compassionate and accessible mental health support to individuals diagnosed with cancer and their support system. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. Through this initiative, we strive to empower each person we serve by offering: Hope, Engagement, Resources and, Empowerment using trauma informed practices. Together, we are HERE—with you and for you—every step of the way. We offer two locations in both Richmond and Williamsburg Virginia.
(757) 505-8374 View (757) 505-8374
Classes are offered online and in-person on Mondays 9am or 6pm, Wednesdays 6pm and Fridays at 9am. Certificate is provided upon completion.
Photo of Shalanda Jackson - J Group Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSOTP, ABS
Hosted by J Group Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSOTP, ABS
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23224
Classes are offered online and in-person on Mondays 9am or 6pm, Wednesdays 6pm and Fridays at 9am. Certificate is provided upon completion.
(804) 409-9112 View (804) 409-9112
Eager to take charge of your self-care but don't know how? Our six-week group (with max of six clients) will teach you foundational skills and provide a space for shared experience to help with anxiety management, emotional regulation, and physical self-care. Techniques we'll teach and practice will include breathwork, journaling, boundary setting, and more! To find out more, please call or email to set up a consultation and screening. Group will run from Oct 7th through Nov 11th 2024.
Photo of Helen I. Lodge, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Helen I. Lodge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23220
Eager to take charge of your self-care but don't know how? Our six-week group (with max of six clients) will teach you foundational skills and provide a space for shared experience to help with anxiety management, emotional regulation, and physical self-care. Techniques we'll teach and practice will include breathwork, journaling, boundary setting, and more! To find out more, please call or email to set up a consultation and screening. Group will run from Oct 7th through Nov 11th 2024.
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Our group practice goal is to help you restore resilience. You may be feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and discouraged by others who just “don’t get it.” Maybe you are in a rollercoaster of emotions or feel stuck like you’re going around the same mountain over and over again. Dr. Danielle Spearman-Camblard directs a highly specialized multi-specialty group private practice of psychologist(s), school psychologist(s), and will soon also include other mental health clinicians (LPCs, LCSWs, and Residents) to better serve the needs of Richmond Metro area and the State of Virginia.
Photo of Dr. Danielle Spearman-Camblard - Family Focus Counsel, LLC, Psychologist, PsyD, HSP, PMH-C, PSYPACT
Hosted by Family Focus Counsel, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP, PMH-C, PSYPACT
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23225
Our group practice goal is to help you restore resilience. You may be feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and discouraged by others who just “don’t get it.” Maybe you are in a rollercoaster of emotions or feel stuck like you’re going around the same mountain over and over again. Dr. Danielle Spearman-Camblard directs a highly specialized multi-specialty group private practice of psychologist(s), school psychologist(s), and will soon also include other mental health clinicians (LPCs, LCSWs, and Residents) to better serve the needs of Richmond Metro area and the State of Virginia.
(804) 258-4627 View (804) 258-4627
You do not have to be alone, Come and join us.
Photo of Brandon A Burr - ADHD Aid Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Hosted by ADHD Aid Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23221
You do not have to be alone, Come and join us.
(202) 519-0087 View (202) 519-0087
Anger Managment Group for Teens and Adults.
Photo of Robyn Nicholas-Barnes, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Hosted by Robyn Nicholas-Barnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23225
Anger Managment Group for Teens and Adults.
(804) 408-4784 View (804) 408-4784
Mindfulness Strategies provides guidance and instruction in a small group setting, helping you develop a personal practice that can actually change your brain. Mindfulness techniques help ground, awaken and uplift. They are indeed a spiritual practice, and help harmonize balance within, as well as without. We are what we choose to practice, give attention to, and interact with, in every way and in each moment of our experience, which is filled with opportunity to grow. Practicing mindfulness feeds spiritual growth. Working within a group setting is special, providing a connection to community and reinforcing growth. Please email or call to enroll.
Photo of Zarasun Murphy, Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA, BS
Hosted by Zarasun Murphy
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA, BS
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23220
Mindfulness Strategies provides guidance and instruction in a small group setting, helping you develop a personal practice that can actually change your brain. Mindfulness techniques help ground, awaken and uplift. They are indeed a spiritual practice, and help harmonize balance within, as well as without. We are what we choose to practice, give attention to, and interact with, in every way and in each moment of our experience, which is filled with opportunity to grow. Practicing mindfulness feeds spiritual growth. Working within a group setting is special, providing a connection to community and reinforcing growth. Please email or call to enroll.
(541) 502-2919 View (541) 502-2919
Attendees can expect grounded education on the function of emotions, how emotions get blocked and ways to approach unblocking them, practical tools for easing anxiety and depression, along with experiential exercises, homework, time to process and ask questions. Groups are a powerful way to learn, and to experience our common humanity with a group of compassionate peers. The group will meet for 8 weeks starting in January on Tuesday evenings from 5:30-7pm over ZOOM. Please see my website for more information at https://shorturl.at/eiV28
Photo of Caitlin Shiflett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PRYT
Hosted by Caitlin Shiflett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PRYT
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23220
Attendees can expect grounded education on the function of emotions, how emotions get blocked and ways to approach unblocking them, practical tools for easing anxiety and depression, along with experiential exercises, homework, time to process and ask questions. Groups are a powerful way to learn, and to experience our common humanity with a group of compassionate peers. The group will meet for 8 weeks starting in January on Tuesday evenings from 5:30-7pm over ZOOM. Please see my website for more information at https://shorturl.at/eiV28
(804) 294-4356 View (804) 294-4356
We believe group treatment helps people connect with others and build lifelong skills. At Charlie Health, our curated groups include CBT Groups, CFT Groups, DBT Skills Groups, ACT Groups, Experiential Therapy Groups, Processing Groups, Trauma Groups, and more. Clients meet in groups three times per week, with each day focusing on new processing and emotional awareness skills. We also have specific groups for veterans, new moms, neurodivergent individuals, BIPOC individuals, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Photo of Charlie Health
Hosted by Charlie Health
Not Verified Not Verified
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23220
We believe group treatment helps people connect with others and build lifelong skills. At Charlie Health, our curated groups include CBT Groups, CFT Groups, DBT Skills Groups, ACT Groups, Experiential Therapy Groups, Processing Groups, Trauma Groups, and more. Clients meet in groups three times per week, with each day focusing on new processing and emotional awareness skills. We also have specific groups for veterans, new moms, neurodivergent individuals, BIPOC individuals, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
(804) 322-4300 View (804) 322-4300
Clinical supervision group for supervisees seeking LCSW licensure. Group will meet weekly. Space is limited to six supervisees. Supervisees must meet all requirements for supervision towards LCSW licensure & receive approval for registration of supervision with Katherine Meyersohn, LCSW, from the Virginia Board of Social Work, in order to participate. If interested, please email or call Katherine for further details, & visit TheHealingArtsCenterofRichmond.com for more details re: my practice & approach.
Photo of Katherine Meyersohn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT 500, Reiki
Hosted by Katherine Meyersohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT 500, Reiki
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23220
Clinical supervision group for supervisees seeking LCSW licensure. Group will meet weekly. Space is limited to six supervisees. Supervisees must meet all requirements for supervision towards LCSW licensure & receive approval for registration of supervision with Katherine Meyersohn, LCSW, from the Virginia Board of Social Work, in order to participate. If interested, please email or call Katherine for further details, & visit TheHealingArtsCenterofRichmond.com for more details re: my practice & approach.
(804) 265-4143 View (804) 265-4143
A New Way of Being: Explorations in Embodied Awareness Explore the process of Embodied Awareness, a system of mind-body presencing that combines time-honored practices with today's understanding of neurobiology. By connecting with direct experience, uncover unique inner resources that support a new depth of peace and acceptance regardless of external circumstances. This four week class stands alone and also serves as an introduction to an ongoing Embodied Awareness Practice Group. Meeting July 21,28, August 04,11
Photo of Susan L. Glover, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Hosted by Susan L. Glover
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23221
A New Way of Being: Explorations in Embodied Awareness Explore the process of Embodied Awareness, a system of mind-body presencing that combines time-honored practices with today's understanding of neurobiology. By connecting with direct experience, uncover unique inner resources that support a new depth of peace and acceptance regardless of external circumstances. This four week class stands alone and also serves as an introduction to an ongoing Embodied Awareness Practice Group. Meeting July 21,28, August 04,11
(804) 495-2035 View (804) 495-2035
Offering: anger management, parenting and covid-19 support groups for children returning to school.
Photo of Ronald T Lowery - Lowery Coaching & Consulting Services, LLC, QMHP-A, QMHP-C , CCTP
Hosted by Lowery Coaching & Consulting Services, LLC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23223
Offering: anger management, parenting and covid-19 support groups for children returning to school.
(804) 207-7513 View (804) 207-7513
The Love Lab is a dynamic and engaging group for individuals or couples who want to explore, nurture, and strengthen their relationships. This group operates like a supportive workshop, combining education, open discussions, and hands-on activities to build deeper connections and healthier communication. Whether in a new relationship, navigating a long-term commitment, or simply curious about personal growth in love, this group offers something valuable for everyone. The name "Love Lab" reflects the group's focus on experimentation, development, and discovery in the realm of relationships by creating a safe space to learn and thrive together.
Photo of Sharmane Duren Grady, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Hosted by Sharmane Duren Grady
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23220
The Love Lab is a dynamic and engaging group for individuals or couples who want to explore, nurture, and strengthen their relationships. This group operates like a supportive workshop, combining education, open discussions, and hands-on activities to build deeper connections and healthier communication. Whether in a new relationship, navigating a long-term commitment, or simply curious about personal growth in love, this group offers something valuable for everyone. The name "Love Lab" reflects the group's focus on experimentation, development, and discovery in the realm of relationships by creating a safe space to learn and thrive together.
(804) 391-8779 View (804) 391-8779
This group, occurring this March 15th to April 18th, integrates art-making with mindfulness to enhance emotional awareness, reduce stress, and foster present-moment connection. Through creative activities, participants explore thoughts, emotions, and body sensations in a supportive, non-judgmental space. Sessions combine mindfulness techniques like deep breathing and body awareness with artistic expression in drawing, painting, collage, and sculpture. The focus is on the process rather than the outcome, promoting relaxation, self-discovery, and growth. Participants can share insights and artworks in a confidential setting, building connection and support. Open to all skill levels.
Photo of Reebha Aggarwal, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Hosted by Reebha Aggarwal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23221
This group, occurring this March 15th to April 18th, integrates art-making with mindfulness to enhance emotional awareness, reduce stress, and foster present-moment connection. Through creative activities, participants explore thoughts, emotions, and body sensations in a supportive, non-judgmental space. Sessions combine mindfulness techniques like deep breathing and body awareness with artistic expression in drawing, painting, collage, and sculpture. The focus is on the process rather than the outcome, promoting relaxation, self-discovery, and growth. Participants can share insights and artworks in a confidential setting, building connection and support. Open to all skill levels.
(804) 596-4461 View (804) 596-4461
As an Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist Certified by the Grief Recovery Method Institute, Leadership Coach, Speaker, and Founder of JacLovelle Coaching & Consulting, "Matters of the Heart" is for men and women who have experienced loss of any kind and are ready to move beyond the place in which grief is preventing them fully living life to the fullest. I partner with you to explore what you've been taught about grief, identify the losses that have impacted your life, and to complete actions hat ill permit you to walk in your purpose. This is achieved in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
Photo of Jacquelin White Maxwell - JacLovelle Coaching & Consulting Group, LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, DSL, CSAC, CAC, AGRMS
Hosted by JacLovelle Coaching & Consulting Group, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, DSL, CSAC, CAC, AGRMS
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23220
As an Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist Certified by the Grief Recovery Method Institute, Leadership Coach, Speaker, and Founder of JacLovelle Coaching & Consulting, "Matters of the Heart" is for men and women who have experienced loss of any kind and are ready to move beyond the place in which grief is preventing them fully living life to the fullest. I partner with you to explore what you've been taught about grief, identify the losses that have impacted your life, and to complete actions hat ill permit you to walk in your purpose. This is achieved in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
(804) 485-1933 View (804) 485-1933
This is a 10 week group for female-identifying adults who want to improve their relationship with themselves. The group will be looking at both sides of self-compassion: yin (receiving self-kindness) and yang (caring for one's self through action). Group will consist of somatic exercises, meditations, journaling, group processing, and lecture. We will meet on Tuesday evenings 9/17/24 - 11/12/24. For more detailed information visit: www.compassioncollectiverva.com
Photo of Alex Schrum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Alex Schrum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23220
This is a 10 week group for female-identifying adults who want to improve their relationship with themselves. The group will be looking at both sides of self-compassion: yin (receiving self-kindness) and yang (caring for one's self through action). Group will consist of somatic exercises, meditations, journaling, group processing, and lecture. We will meet on Tuesday evenings 9/17/24 - 11/12/24. For more detailed information visit: www.compassioncollectiverva.com
(804) 390-8549 View (804) 390-8549
We are Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Providers in conjunction with (VASAP) committed to working to support clients who are court ordered or desire to enhance self-help with groups and individual therapy. Also, I am a certified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) who evaluates employees who have violated the US Department of Transportation (DOT) drug and alcohol program regulations. During this time an overview of the SAP process is provided, and an American Society of Addiction Medicine (Asam) assessment is completed with the individual and the clearinghouse process is finalized. We also provide (IOP) group and individual substance use services.
Photo of Damita Perry, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, CSAC, SAP
Hosted by Damita Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, CSAC, SAP
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23219
We are Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Providers in conjunction with (VASAP) committed to working to support clients who are court ordered or desire to enhance self-help with groups and individual therapy. Also, I am a certified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) who evaluates employees who have violated the US Department of Transportation (DOT) drug and alcohol program regulations. During this time an overview of the SAP process is provided, and an American Society of Addiction Medicine (Asam) assessment is completed with the individual and the clearinghouse process is finalized. We also provide (IOP) group and individual substance use services.
(804) 531-6884 View (804) 531-6884
This in-person group is focused on providing a safe space to share and process emotions, day-to-day stressors, build community, and learn new coping strategies to aid in healing. Email selena@adaptiverichmondtherapy.com for more information or to complete an intake!
Photo of Selena Hicks, Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, ITR-CTS
Hosted by Selena Hicks
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, ITR-CTS
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23220
This in-person group is focused on providing a safe space to share and process emotions, day-to-day stressors, build community, and learn new coping strategies to aid in healing. Email selena@adaptiverichmondtherapy.com for more information or to complete an intake!
(804) 445-8862 View (804) 445-8862
Our mission is to create a trauma-informed, compassionate, and confidential space where first responders can safely explore and heal from the cumulative impact of their service. Grounded in an understanding of the unique stressors and exposures faced in emergency response roles, our group fosters trust, peer connection, and emotional resilience. We are committed to honoring each individual’s experience without judgment, supporting recovery through education, empowerment, and evidence-based practices that prioritize safety, choice, and collaboration.
Photo of Bartley Deane Gibson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCT-SP, ADHD-PT, TLHT
Hosted by Bartley Deane Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCT-SP, ADHD-PT, TLHT
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23219
Our mission is to create a trauma-informed, compassionate, and confidential space where first responders can safely explore and heal from the cumulative impact of their service. Grounded in an understanding of the unique stressors and exposures faced in emergency response roles, our group fosters trust, peer connection, and emotional resilience. We are committed to honoring each individual’s experience without judgment, supporting recovery through education, empowerment, and evidence-based practices that prioritize safety, choice, and collaboration.
(681) 228-6188 View (681) 228-6188
Treat yourself to a special sound bath focused on gently soothing your nervous system. Elise will softly guide you to set an intention, take nourishing breaths, and release any lingering tension. Sink into the comfort of sound waves that wash over your body, calming your mind. Distance Reiki will be administered throughout. Let yourself drift into a state of pure comfort. Registration is required. There are no refunds offered for late cancellations or no-shows.
Photo of Elise Kindya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Elise Kindya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23221
Treat yourself to a special sound bath focused on gently soothing your nervous system. Elise will softly guide you to set an intention, take nourishing breaths, and release any lingering tension. Sink into the comfort of sound waves that wash over your body, calming your mind. Distance Reiki will be administered throughout. Let yourself drift into a state of pure comfort. Registration is required. There are no refunds offered for late cancellations or no-shows.
(804) 570-2308 View (804) 570-2308

See more therapy options for Richmond

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Richmond?

To find a support group in your area, start by entering your city, zip code, or the name of the group into the search bar at the top of the page. When searching, consider whether you prefer an in-person or virtual group. This can help you decide how broad your geographic search should be. If you are open to virtual groups, you might want to search by state instead of just your city, especially if there are limited options nearby.

Once you complete your search, you can use the filters to narrow the results by selecting specialties (such as grief, trauma, or eating disorders), therapeutic approaches, age groups, and other criteria to find a group that best fits your needs.

How does group therapy work?

Group therapy is led by one or more trained therapists and provides a space where participants can process their experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. Groups may focus on a specific issue—such as addiction, grief, physical illnesses, parenting, or caregiving—or they may center around a particular therapeutic approach, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), social skill development, or Exposure Therapy. Some groups are also designed for specific populations, such as teens, veterans, or LGBTQ+ individuals.

It’s also important to distinguish group therapy from peer-led support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous. While both can offer valuable support, therapy groups are typically led by licensed professionals and follow a more structured format. Therapy groups often meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many peer support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.

What are the benefits of group therapy?

Group therapy offers several important benefits. It brings together people facing similar challenges—whether related to mental health, physical health, or life transitions—and creates a supportive environment where participants can exchange feedback, share experiences, and learn from one another. Hearing different perspectives can help individuals discover new coping strategies and practical tools they may not have encountered on their own. Sharing personal experiences, such as coping with a serious illness or navigating family struggles, can also reduce feelings of isolation and foster a sense of connection and understanding. In addition to emotional support, group members often gain useful, real-world advice from peers who have faced similar situations.

Group therapy is typically more affordable than individual therapy and, for certain conditions, can be equally effective. Many groups also include structured activities—such as guided journaling, cognitive-behavioral exercises, or role-playing—to help participants develop concrete skills they can apply in daily life.

Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?

It is difficult to make a blanket statement about the effectiveness of support groups, as they vary widely in focus and the conditions they address. However, support groups can be highly valuable in helping individuals gain emotional support and achieve meaningful treatment outcomes. For certain conditions, such as substance use, research has shown that group therapy can be particularly effective—sometimes just as effective as individual therapy—in supporting long-term recovery.

Many professionals attribute the effectiveness of group therapy to the unique benefits of the group setting, which fosters peer-to-peer learning and a sense of connection through shared experiences. Group settings also offer accountability and encouragement from both facilitators and fellow participants, which helps sustain motivation and supports continued progress. These factors together play a key role in promoting the overall effectiveness of group therapy.

How much does group therapy cost?

Group therapy is typically less expensive than individual therapy, with sessions typically costing between $50 and $75 each. In comparison, individual therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 or more per session, even with insurance. Some therapists or organizations offer low-cost or free group therapy options, particularly through community centers or nonprofit organizations. In some cases, groups may require payment upfront for a set number of sessions, such as paying for six weekly sessions at the first meeting. However, many providers offer payment plans to help make participation more accessible if this upfront payment is required.

Does insurance cover group therapy?

As with individual therapy, insurance coverage for group therapy varies based on factors such as your specific insurance plan, the purpose of the group, your diagnosis, and whether the group provider is in-network. Many insurance plans cover group therapy sessions that address diagnosable mental health conditions, such as substance use disorders, anxiety, or depression.

However, groups that focus on topics not directly tied to a mental health diagnosis—such as parenting support or divorce recovery—are less likely to be covered. Because coverage can vary widely, it’s important to check with your insurance provider before joining a group to confirm whether the sessions will be covered and what out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for.

How long does group therapy last?

The length of each group therapy session typically ranges from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the therapy approach, the group’s goals, and how often the group meets. In some cases, group therapy is part of a larger treatment program, such as an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), where group sessions complement individual therapy and are scheduled as part of the program’s overall structure.

The duration of participation in a group also varies. Some groups are designed to be short-term, lasting anywhere from 6 to 24 weeks—for example, bereavement groups or skills-based groups like those using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Other groups may be longer-term, lasting a year or more, and some ongoing support groups meet indefinitely, allowing participants to stay as long as they find the group helpful.

What are the limitations of support groups?

Support groups offer many benefits, but they also have certain limitations. Unlike therapy groups, many support groups do not provide formal therapeutic treatment and are not led by licensed mental health professionals. For individuals seeking clinical treatment for specific mental health diagnoses—such as depression, eating disorders, or substance use—individual therapy or group therapy led by a licensed professional may offer more personalized and specialized care.

The effectiveness of a support group also depends heavily on the group’s participants and the overall group dynamic. When members engage respectfully and offer constructive support, the group can foster valuable peer-to-peer learning. However, if certain participants dominate discussions, provide inaccurate advice, or create conflict, it can disrupt the group’s sense of safety and reduce its effectiveness. Confidentiality can also be harder to maintain in support groups, particularly in open groups where participants can join or leave at any time. With new members regularly entering the group, it can be more difficult to build and sustain a consistent sense of trust and privacy.